Have you been hearing about the Pelvic Floor lately? Well, there are certainly more people talking about it these days and like many things, the information we see and hear can be overwhelming especially if we are wondering about our own Pelvic Floor (and how well it may be working).
Much of the information will refer to PFD: Pelvic Floor Dysfunction.
I have to admit, I do not really like the word ‘dysfunction’. Nothing labelled as ‘dysfunctional’ is seen as a good thing. The word dysfunction usually gives the impression that there is not much hope for a solution (which does not help our state of mind either).
I think it would be much better to refer to any sort of Pelvic Floor concern as ‘Pelvic Floor Disconnection’ or ‘Pelvic Floor Miscommunication’ because in many cases, we just need to reconnect our Brain, Body & Pelvic Floor by improving the communication between them in order to see improvements in our Pelvic Floor function (like minimizing / eliminating bladder leakage).
When it comes to our health, sharing good information is something we can all do to educate and help each other learn ways to improve our lives – even when it comes to the Pelvic Floor!
For example, men can also experience Pelvic Floor challenges (not just women); contracting your Pelvic Floor muscles (Kegels) might not be right for your situation; prescription medication or surgery are not the only solution for Pelvic Floor problems.
Here are a few simple things we can do right now to improve our Pelvic Floor, bladder function as well as our overall health …
- Drink water, less caffeine, less alcohol.
- Stop doing sit-ups and crunches.
- Take control of your bathroom habits.
- Eat fibre to maintain regularity.
- Walk every day. Not on a treadmill.
- Stop wearing high-heeled shoes.
- Eat low acid, less spicy, less sugar.
- Move more. Stand more. Sit Less.
- Improve your posture & alignment.
- See a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist.
Join our new Pre/Post Natal Fitness Program for military mothers. Happening Monday and Wednesday, 1330-1430hrs. Contact Reconditioning Manager, Lindsay Clark (clark.lindsay@cfmws.com) for more information.
Article by: Kerri Hollywood (Community Recreation Coordinator, PSP Kingston)